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Order Code RS22818Updated June 19, 2008CRS Report for CongressNational Aeronautics and SpaceAdministration: Overview, FY2009 Budget,and Issues for CongressDaniel Morgan and Carl E. BehrensResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryThe National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducts U.S.civilian space and aeronautics activities. For FY2009, the Administration has requested$17.614 billion for NASA, an increase of 1.8% from the FY2008 appropriation of$17.309 billion. The NASA Authorization Act of 2008 (H.R. 6063) would authorize$20.210 billion for FY2009. The President's 2004 Moon/Mars Vision for SpaceExploration is the major focus of NASA's activities. Issues for Congress regarding thisgoal include the development of new vehicles for human spaceflight, plans for thetransition to these vehicles after the space shuttle is retired in 2010, and the balance inNASA's priorities between human space exploration and the agency's other activitiesin science and aeronautics. H.R. 6063 includes a "Sense of the Congress" provisionurging cooperation with other nations in the Moon/Mars activities.Agency OverviewThe National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was created by the1958 National Aeronautics and Space Act (P.L. 85-568) to conduct civilian space andaeronautics activities. NASA opened its doors on October 1, 1958, almost exactly a yearafter the Soviet Union launched the world's first satellite, Sputnik.' In the five decadessince, NASA has conducted programs in human and robotic spaceflight, technologydevelopment, and scientific research. The first day of FY2009 will be NASA's 50thanniversary.NASA is headquartered in Washington, DC. It has nine major field centers: AmesResearch Center, Moffett Field, CA; Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA;Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH; Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt,MD; Johnson Space Center, near Houston, TX; Kennedy Space Center, near CapeSee CRS Report RL34263, U.S. Civilian Space Policy Priorities: Reflections 50 Years AfterSputnik, by Deborah D. Stine.Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressPrepared for Members and Committees of Congress